Pictured: Mary Ann Cricchio and her son, Mimmo Cricchio of Da Mimmo Tours. Provided photo.

What started as a way to help a loyal customer plan a dream Italian vacation soon evolved into Da Mimmo Tours—a boutique travel company now celebrating 15 years of service, offering immersive adventures through Italy for Sarasota community members and beyond. Founded by Mary Ann Cricchio and her son, Mimmo Cricchio, Da Mimmo Tours guides groups through cities across Italy, providing a personable experience for 20 to 25 guests. Each trip reflects the same spirit of hospitality that defined Mary Ann and her late husband, Chef Mimmo, for 36 years at their Mimmo's Baltimore restaurant, Da Mimmo Finest Italian Cuisine.

“My whole life has been making people happy—whether it's in the restaurant, on tour or here in Sarasota.” Mary Ann said. The original concept for Da Mimmo Tours began when restaurant regulars, who knew the family had a home on the Amalfi Coast, regularly turned to Mary Ann for travel advice. After independently using Mary Ann's recommendations abroad, one loyal customer said, “We love your itinerary, but we want to go back when you're there.” This moment marked the beginning of a new chapter for the family.

After committing to a travel company, Mary Ann decided to leave Baltimore and put down roots in Sarasota. Mary Ann explained that Sarasota was ideal for the tour company because many retired people were looking for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Da Mimmo Tours launched in 2010 with an exclusive Amalfi Coast experience. As they grew in popularity, the Cricchios expanded to include trips to Tuscany, Venice and Sicily. “People in Sarasota appreciate our format because through our trips you truly experience the lifestyle, the cuisine and the people of that region,” Mary Ann said. Thanks to the family's connections abroad, they offer perks that go beyond the standard group trip. They have skip-the-line tickets to popular attractions and access to exclusive events like the Venetian Masquerade Ball.

“We're not just handing them an itinerary; we're sharing experiences we've personally vetted and refined to help create lasting memories,” Mary Ann said.

The close-knit nature of the trips fosters an environment where guests become friends. The Cricchios host monthly reunions for Sarasota locals where former travelers catch up, reminisce and even dream about their next adventure together. “It's the personal touch that sets us apart and contributes to our success–we don't want to change that,” Mary Ann said.

Pictured: Mary Ann Cricchio and her son, Mimmo Cricchio of Da Mimmo Tours. Provided photo.

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